Health Library

After Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

You have had a procedure to repair an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), which occurred when a weakened part of a blood vessel in your abdominal area expanded like a balloon. During an endovascular repair, your doctor created two small incisions near your groin. A thin, flexible tube (called a catheter) was threaded into the artery at the incision. A graft was placed inside the catheter and guided toward the damaged part of your aorta to prevent further problems.

Home Care

Avoid strenuous activity for 7 to 10 days after your surgery.

Ask your doctor when you can expect to return to work.

Gradually increase your activity. It may take some time for you to return to your normal activities.

Don’t drive for 2 weeks after surgery. Ask someone to take you to any appointments.

Check your incision every day for signs of infection (swelling, redness, drainage, or warmth).

Keep your incision clean. Wash it gently with soap and water while you shower.

Don’t swim or use a hot tub until your doctor says it is OK.

Don’t lift anything heavier than 5 pounds for 4 weeks after surgery.

Avoid sitting or standing for long periods without moving your legs and feet.

Keep your feet up when you sit in a chair.

Take your medications exactly as directed. Don’t skip doses.

When to Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following:

Redness, pain, swelling, or drainage from your incision

Fever above 101.0°F (38.3°C)

Sudden coldness, pain, or paleness in your leg

Loss of feeling in your legs

Severe or sudden abdominal pain

Nausea or vomiting

Trouble breathing

Pain or heaviness in your chest or arms

Any unusual bleeding

Follow-Up

Make a follow-up appointment to have your incisions checked and staples removed within 7 to 10 days.